2016 BMW X1 (India-bound) spotted testing in Brazil – Spied

Posted on: Mar 13, 2015 - 4:12pm IST

To come with transverse engine and front wheel drive.

The next gen BMW X1 is approaching the market quickly, as the German luxury car maker is testing the prototypes of the new baby crossover around the world. The latest spy pictures come from Sao Paulo, Brazil, thanks to readers Mr. Alex Parrado and Mr. Felipe Nunes of Noticias Automotivas.

The 2016 BMW X1 moves to the front-wheel drive architecture, and may get a 1.5L petrol/diesel engine in the basic variant.

The new X1, codenamed BMW F48, is expected to be unveiled most likely at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. The Indian launch may follow about 6 months after global deliveries commence.

The compact crossover undergoes a major transformation, as it is based on the new UKL platform that is a front wheel drive. This platform launched on the new Mini Cooper that went on sale last year. The ‘xDrive’ all-wheel drive system will continue to be optional as before.

The new X1’s front was leaked in a Chinese spyshot showing its evolutionary change. [Pic – AutoHome]The engine line-up may start with the 1.5-liter 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol, 1.5-liter three-cylinder diesel and a more powerful 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel producing 168 bhp. A 6-speed manual and an 8-speed automatic transmissions are said to stay on, while India may only get the latter due to strong buyer preference.

The exterior design of the new 2016 X1 is not very different to the existing model, as understood from various spyshots. The interiors receive new dashboard design and a redesigned steering wheel. The new FWD architecture will also free up more space for the rear passengers, while a seven-seat variant, to be positioned slightly below the X3, is also under development. Spyshots from China showed that a long wheelbase version is also planned.

The vehicle is likely to be revealed later this year and go on sale in Europe in 2016.